Organic Advantage

Advantages

In nature, decomposition of organic matter creates a natural fertilizer. Applying organic compost or well-aged herbivore manure adds nutrient-rich organic material to the soil, improving quality and texture. This increases its ability to hold water; reduces erosion from water and wind; decreases compaction and crusting of the soil; and raises soil PH.

A study at Virginia Tech comparing organic or inorganic fertilizers determined that organic fertilizer is the better choice. Natural fertilizers are less likely to burn tender, young plants as they are less concentrated than chemical formulas. You may also want the peace of mind of knowing the food you cultivate is free of noxious chemicals

Improves Soil Health

Organic matter is essential to having healthy soil. Organic fertilizer is composed of only organic material, which makes it an excellent additive for soil that is nutrient deficient. The organic matter in the fertilizer also helps the soil retain moisture and increases its workability. Gardeners depend on a soil that is workable because soil that is too hard or soft will not support plants effectively. Another great benefit of organic fertilizer is that it increases airflow through the soil, which allows the plants' roots to breathe. In some cases, chemical fertilizers increase the acidity of soil due to the excess nutrients in the soil not absorbed by the plants. Organic fertilizers do not have this problem because they slowly break down and release nutrients at a rate, which allows plants to absorb them naturally and completely with no waste or excess.

Great organic fertilizer can be obtained in two ways: creating your own from leaves, grass clippings, kitchen scraps and yard debris or purchasing an organic fertilizer like Nature’s E.N.V.